George Perry Floyd Jr. may have been taken from this world too soon, but his memory continues to live on. On what would have been his 50th birthday, the Floyd family is honoring his life by hosting a celebration in his hometown of Fayetteville, NC. This event, ‘Forever George’, is more than just a birthday party; it’s a celebration of a life that was tragically cut short, but whose impact has resonated around the world.
George Floyd was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, on October 14, 1973. He grew up in Houston, Texas, and became a father to one child, Gianna. Floyd was a truck driver and worked on various jobs throughout his life. It wasn’t until his death on May 25, 2020, that the world learned of him.
On that fateful day, Floyd was accused of using a counterfeit twenty-dollar bill at a convenience store, which led to his fatal encounter with Minneapolis police officers. As he lay on the ground, handcuffed and pleading for his life, one officer, Derek Chauvin, knelt on Floyd’s neck and back for 9 minutes and 29 seconds. The incident was caught on camera, and the world watched in horror as Floyd suffocated to death, saying, “I can’t breathe.”
Floyd’s death was a tragedy that sparked a global movement against police brutality and racism. Protests erupted across the United States and around the world, as people came together to demand justice for Floyd and all victims of police violence. His dying words, “I can’t breathe,” became a rallying cry for the movement.
Despite the painful circumstances of his death, George Floyd’s legacy lives on. His sister Bridget continues to honor his life and mission of promoting unity and love. The ‘Forever George’ event is just one way to celebrate his life and keep his message alive.
The celebration will take place on October 15th at Festival Park in Fayetteville, NC. The event will feature live music, guest appearances, free haircuts for the community, and more.
George Floyd’s death was a tragedy, but his legacy is one of hope and unity. While his life may have been cut short, his impact will be felt for generations to come. The ‘Forever George’ celebration is an opportunity to honor his memory and continue his work of promoting love, unity, and justice. Bridgett Floyd and organizers hope that this event will inspire others to come together and make a positive difference in their communities and the world. Let us all join in the celebration of a life that mattered and a cause that will live on forever.
